The Difference Between CBD and THC
CBD and THC both come from the cannabis plant, so what’s the difference?
CBD vs THC. It’s a debate that has grown in popularity in recent years. THC and CBD (or Cannabidiol) are two of the main compounds in cannabis. But what makes them separate and unique?
First, let’s look at a similarity: they are two cannabinoids that have been (fairly) well characterized by the medical community. The medical and wellness benefits of both THC and CBD are becoming documented, partially due to an increasing number of states offering medical marijuana programs. In fact, naturopaths, holistic healers and doctors around the world have used marijuana for medical purposes for generations. Many strains of marijuana, for example, are world famous for their high-THC levels and related health benefits (stress reduction, sleep aid, appetite stimulation, and so on). While high-CBD strains were previously less common, a new age of “hemp” has produced higher and higher potency strains. Similarly, the medical community has begun looking at CBD (and related cannabinoids like CBG and CBN) more attention to the therapeutic effects of CBD, that’s beginning to change.*
The Health Benefits of CBD vs THC
Both CBD and THC have many important documented health benefits:
First, THC has known antispasmodic, analgesic (pain relieving), anti-tremor, anti-inflammatory, appetite stimulating and antiemetic (anti-nausea) properties. THC also has a therapeutic “high” that many use to induce calmness, restfulness, and decreased anxiety. Many in the scientific community are in fact pushing for increased studies on the effects of THC on PTSD, for example.
CBD has anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, antioxidant, analgesic and antiemetic effects. It’s also a documented neuroprotective (meaning it helps protect and regenerate the nervous system), immunomodulatory (immune-system boosting) and has antipsychotic effects. With the above properties, CBD is considered especially useful in pain management and pain reduction, especially in users who suffer from fibromyalgia, arthritis, migraines and even dental pain.*
The Big Difference: Psychoactivity
Despite its health benefits, practitioners often limit THC (or don’t prescribe at all) because of its psychoactive effects. While many people would turn to THC for its numerous benefits, the “high” it induces is a turn-off. CBD, on the other hand, offers the health benefits without psychoactive effects – one of the reasons for CBD’s growing popularity with the medical community.
While THC is known to cause anxiety and paranoia in some users, CBD actually works to counteract those unpleasant side effects. Additionally, while THC often makes users feel drowsy or sleepy, CBD can promote wakefulness and an alert state of mind.*
Which is better: CBD or THC?
Many people rely on medical and recreational marijuana for its health and wellness benefits. For those who don’t want or enjoy the psychoactive effects, CBD is an amazing alternative. It has multiple health benefits without the high. Frankly speaking, both cannabinoids are powerful allies in the pursuit of better health. Whether used together (a concept that has gained significant amounts of anecdotal reputation) or individually, both can support a healthier and more pain-free body.*
*The Apothecary LLC are not doctors and we do not provide medical advice. None of the information on this site, including information in any press release or blog post, constitutes legal or medical advice by us.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the text belong solely to the author, and not necessarily to the author’s employer, organization, committee or other group or individual.
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Jesse Richardson is the co-founder of The Brothers Apothecary. He's an avid tea drinker and the primary creator behind The Brothers' products. An undergraduate of UCLA for Political Science, Jesse currently studies Medicinal Plants at Cornell University and The International School of Herbal Arts & Sciences.
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